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Calcaneal apophysitis — ABFM Board MCQ

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ModeratePediatrics and adolescent medicineCalcaneal apophysitisABFM Board

A 14-year-old boy has heel pain that worsens during basketball practice and improves with rest. Examination shows tenderness over the posterior calcaneus and pain with medial-lateral compression of the heel. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?

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Correct answer: A — Calcaneal apophysitis

Calcaneal apophysitis, also called Sever disease, causes activity-related posterior heel pain in growing adolescents and is provoked by heel squeeze. Treatment is activity modification, stretching, heel cups, and analgesia.

Reference: AAFP Heel Pain Review